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Speed Cameras On LA Streets? Local, State Officials Want To Allow Cities To Launch Pilot Programs
Saying "enough is enough," State Assemblymember David Chiu announced new legislation to reduce "completely preventable" traffic deaths in California by allowing cities to develop and launch speed camera pilot programs.
The bill, AB 550 , is being co-sponsored by the cities of Los Angeles, Oakland, San Francisco, and San Jose.
Speaking during a virtual press briefing, Chiu, D-San Francisco, said it's common knowledge that "speed kills," but not enough has been done to hold drivers accountable.
"When a driver traveling 20 miles per hour hits a pedestrian, there's a 90% chance that pedestrian will survive. At 40 miles an hour, the chance of survival drops to 20%. These numbing statistics become background noise for some who chalk it up to car culture, who treat it as an acceptable cost of driving. But at a certain point, we have to say enough is enough, because these deaths are completely, utterly preventable."
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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